It is often argued that juveniles should receive the same punishment as adults, due to committing serious crimes, while others believe that adult sentences are too severe for youngsters. This essay will discuss both these points of view and argue in favour of the latter.
On the one hand, many people believe that juveniles need to know that the law is serious and punishment is a good way to teach them this. Everyone will learn from their mistakes, no matter how small or huge they are. Law is a more serious thing than juveniles can imagine. For example, if young people receive even a small punishment, they will learn from this, and they will never commit this mistake again. Moreover, crime is a crime regardless of age. Fixed punishment for all ages will help to control crimes. For instance, no one will receive leniency because he or she is young. If youngsters receive leniency, it will bring chaos, all types of crime will be committed with the participation of juveniles.
On the other hand, youngsters might be negatively influenced by time in adult prisons. Not all juveniles are resistant to physical and mental push, consequently it might badly influence their whole life. For instance, after leaving prison they will continue doing crime, even though it might end in suicide. Furthermore, bad behaviour is easier to change when a person is young. While young, a person’s behaviour is not constant; it could change every day. Every person goes through several emotional periods, without parental control it might be directed in a bad way. Therefore, during several periods parents should control their children’s behaviour.
In my opinion, treating child criminals like adults is more effective and maintains equality among all crimes. I believe that juveniles who committed crime should receive leniency. It is more helpful for the population’s psychology and safety.
In conclusion, both fixed punishment and light punishment have their merits. However, I am convinced that light punishment is more efficient, it is helpful for the population and keeps children away from committing another crime.